In Our Own Backyard

The Imfamous 1st Birthday

2007-03-02T12:15:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, I swear I forget I have a blog!

Feb. 27th marked Bubba's first birthday! Neither of us can believe it's been a year. A year ago (on the 27th) at about 10:15AM we got our first call about Bubba and the rest is history!

We of course did the cake thing...stripped down to his underwear for the first of many pieces of chocolate cake. Actually we started out the day with a cupcake for breakfast. In case you're thinking "poor parenting" we did feed him oatmeal first. I had one small cupcake left over from the ones I had baked for his daycare class to celebrate his birthday. We put a candle in it and C and I sang to him. Of course, he just stared at the lit candle...kids are so predictable. We took the candle out and put it on the tray of his high chair and he did this:

Apparenty we missed the sign that said "insert finger here". He did eventually eat the cupcake.

After dinner, with some friends and their kids, we fed him his first piece of chocolate cake. He, again, stared at the lit candle as all of us sang to him. The kids blew out the candle for Bubba. The chocolate cake was a tad messier than the cupcake:

The bath water was an interesting colour!

We are having a party tomorrow with family and friends. Isn't life wonderful!!!

Work, work, work

2007-02-13T08:45:00.000-05:00

Well I'm two days into week 2 back on the job. I started a new job. Where else can you be off for 11 months and get promoted?!?

We are all adjusting quite well to the new schedule. The morning schedule is tight, a little hectic, but working so far. I am looking forward to the summer when there is no more snow suit!

Bubba is settling into his new daycare quite well. The two weeks prior to the official start I was to ease him in. Unfortunately, he spent most of January sick. We started the year with croop, followed by back-to-back ear infections, an almost constant temp above 100 for the month (or so it seemed) and vomitting, a reaction to his antibiotics...need I go on. So last Monday, we had to the dump & go. He cried hard and didn't eat much or sleep really well the first week. In the evenings, eh would cry if one of us left the room or his sight and going to and staying in bed were both huge challenge.

Things are getting better (quicker than I though) and he is back to eating like a champ, he is starting to sleep at daycare and having less anxiety. Yesterday's report said he was "happy"! Apparently he loves arts & crafts. His "teacher" said when they bring them out he drops what he's doing and races over to the table. Of course, glue tastes good :)

On another note (since I'm cathcing you up) bubba started walking. He's been doing so for about a month despite his illnesses. His record is 14 steps in a row. He is also doing purposeful direction changes and his balance is great. He also has 2 words - wow & uh-oh. So cute! Last night, after his dinner, he looked at me and clearly said "nana" twice. He usually has bananas for dessert, which he scarfs down. I think that's his third word, but we're not sure if it was coincidence.

I should get back to the job. The first two and a half days were quiet, then people realized I was here and my office is such a mess you'd never know I left.

We're officially OFFICIAL

2007-02-01T08:57:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, March 1, 2006 when we first laid eyes on Bubba, we were an instant family. In the eyes of the law C & I were not considered Bubba's parents yet (appointed caregivers) and he didn't yet have our last name. But a few days ago that all changed.

Tuesday, January 23, 2007 marked the day finalizing Bubba's adoption. We attended court and at about 9:45 the judge signed the document making us an "official" family!!!

Bubba hammed it up for the small crowd of family and friends on hand. It was a great occasion and we couldn't be happier to all be a "legal" family.

Thank you to all of you who have offered your support, encouragement and love during this journey.

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let the love of family and friends surround you this Christmas and may health and happiness lead you in the New Year!!

Catholic guilt is the worst kind...

2006-11-17T11:03:00.000-05:00

I feel guilty, guilty, guilty. Logic tells me it's "new mother guilt" and I know it's normal, but I still feel guilty. You see, I am going back to work soon (early 2007) and Bubba is going into full-time care. Finding full-time daycare is a very streesful event and I didn't actually think it was going to happen. One mom at our Mom & Tots swim class exclaimed that she had "put her son on every waiting list possible when she was three months pregant". Great...I'm never going to find daycare...or so I thought.

Last week it all came together. I found two within 15 minutes of my husband's office (he will be the primary picker-upper and dropper-offer as I have a unpredictable schedule). Then a day after finding those two, I got a call from one whose waiting list we were on which is 3 minutes from C's office. It's clean, we like the location and if the teachers pan out that we meet next week, then I will give them our money. So it looks like Bubba has care...I should be happy right?

So why do I feel so damn guilty??? I would love to be staying at home with him, but we're not in a position right now for that. I left the daycare last night with a great impression but I still felt guilt about having to leave him there - no Mommy or Daddy sightings for an entire day. Will he be ok? How will this affect him long-term? The feeling of almost despair similar to the one when we left him for the first night with the foster family and had to come back home, snuck back in.

I feel guilty that we have to put in full-time daycare. I feel guilty that I am going to have to work. I feel guilty that we will have less time together. I feel guilty (and a bit jealous) that I won't be able to drop him off and pick him up. I feel guilty because maybe I haven't done enough stuff with him the past 8 1/2 months. Should I have put him in more programs? Should I have been more diligent about saving and stayed off longer or forever. Should I have blogged while he played quietly on the floor...what kind of mother does that!!! These types of things keep me awake at night (besides Bubba).

So, thank you to my mother for instilling that wonderful Catholic guilt! Am I normal??? On second thought, don't anser that.

Holy POOP Batman!!!

2006-11-07T14:37:00.000-05:00

Remember when I thought poop was cute. Well, not so much anymore. I used to brag to the other new moms..."we've never had an up-the-back-poop". "You're so lucky", they'd say. You see, Bubba is a bottle fed baby, so the poop stays contained in the diaper. Nice.

When Bubba was introduced to solids...no change. Everyone said, "You're day is coming." But, it never did...until yogurt!

Now we have at least one "up-the-back-poop" daily. We average 4 poops a day and Mr. Mobile has decided that staying still for a diaper change is ABSOLUTELY out of the question. I have put my hand in more poop than I care to think about. It is no longer cute for his sock to go in the poop!

Not my favourite part of parenting, I must confess. Off to do the universal poop check...nose to bum. Admit it you've all done it.

Frogs & Unwanted Calories

2006-10-31T19:34:00.000-05:00

Happy Hallowe'en!!!

I love Hallowe'en and even more this year. Bubba's first Hallowe'en. We went to a grand total of 4 houses - our cousins' and three neighbours! He had no idea why we were doing this, but didn't complain and Mommy & Daddy got his candies. I've already downed almost a whole box of mini chocolate bars, so I didn't really need more. Bubba was a froggy...isn't he cute???

My New Workout Routine

2006-10-25T09:50:00.000-04:00

It has been 12 days since Bubba started crawling and everyday he gets faster and more stable. It's so cute to see him venture around. Yesterday, he started crawling out of my site. Of course, no good can come from this as he is usually headed for something he's not supposed to have.

He has kept me a lot busier since he started moving. I really have to be careful and super fast if I walk into the next room. Even with a very open-concept house, there are still lots of places to hide. I am making more use of the "pack-n-play" than ever before. He really quite likes it in there with all his toys. He scratches at the side like he's a prisoner that wants out, but then gives me his big cheese-ball grin...

and continues playing with his toys. When Bubba is not in the pack-n-play or the exersaucer...one of life's GREATEST inventions...I am spending time between the fireplace and the plants. A few days ago, he discovered the guitars and amps...I really need to get my butt in gear and move those, and yesterday he discovered the CD stand...why don't we just get an iPod like everyone else and get rid of those damn things!

It's amazing that the 50 or so toys strewn about the livingroom aren't enough distraction from the things Bubba is not allowed to touch. He does have one weakness though...a tower! I build towers out of all kinds of different toys. If he sees one, he races over and knocks it down...usually on his way to the fireplace. So I build a lot of towers!

We are also finding ourselves looking for interesting ways to say "no". Since no is part of his name, I spend my day saying things like, "that's not a toy", or "that's not for Bubba/a baby", or "that's Mommy & Daddy's", or "ta-ta". I say "Bubba" (in that tone of voice, like what are you getting into) to which he may pause, look over his shoulder with a mischievous grin and continue toward whatever off-limits object he's after.

We are visiting Nanny & Bampa and Granny's houses this weekend...watch out animals!

...and then there were four

2006-10-18T08:41:00.000-04:00

It's taken me a week to post about this...shame on me!

On Wednesday, October 11th a new cousin arrived in the family. My sister and her husband had there second little girl (MJL)! She was 6lbs 14oz and only 17 3/4 long (shrimp!) just like her Mom. Older sister E (2 1/2) is half excited and half jealous. I know she will be a great big sister (once she gets over the shock of sharing everything and everyone with little M)!

So that's three cousins for Bubba. He's still the only boy! Christmas at Nanny & Bampa's will be busy! I can just see cousin E as the ring leader with Bubba in tow tormenting the cat and dog, knocking down the Christmas tree and tearing the house apart!

Isn't family great!

Movin' on up...

2006-10-15T09:25:00.000-04:00

...or should I say around.

Yesterday, Bubba started crawling!!! He has been on the verge for a while, getting up on all fours and rocking mostly. In the last few weeks, he would shuffle his little knees (so cute!) but his hands would be stationary. Then he started moving his hands forward, but would forget to move his knees and he would do a bellyflop.

About a week ago, he started taking 1-2 crawling "steps" then bellyflopping. Then yesterday, he took 4 in a row! I was up with him alone when he did it, so I grabbed him and put him into the middle of the floor for him to do it again, but of course he wasn't interested in showing off...yet.

Then a little while later while we were playing, he crawled (more than 4 steps) toward his butterfly (favourite toy). So I took the butterfly and went about 3 feet away. He got up on all fours with a determined look on his face. He stayed like that for about 30 seconds, then he started his little shuffle crawling...his knees move a litle faster than his hands. I counted 20 "steps" and he had reached me!!!

We spent the rest of the day making him crawl to different things which he was pretty eager to do, each time we would cheer and kiss him...he doesn't understand why Mommy & Daddy are acting so weird. We have video and I will try to post it once we figure it out.

We did hit Toys*R*Us yesterday for two more gates. Although Bubba hasn't ventured out of the living/dining room yet, it's only a matter of time. Gotta go baby proof!

A Mastercard Moment

2006-10-12T14:55:00.000-04:00

Camera & Batteries: $200

Spoon & Bowl set: $5

Tasting cottage cheese for the first time: PRICELESS!!!

Internet Code Name

2006-10-12T10:48:00.000-04:00

I have decided that N needs an internet code name rather than going by his first initial all the time.

After careful consideration of the many options:

Tooty (we may get a lot of hits from "Facts of Life" fans);
Grumpy Drawers (too long to type);
Stinky (he might get a complex);
No-No (perhpas a bit negative);
George or Frank (confusing as neither are his name); or
Destructo-Baby (again, too long to type).

I have decided to go with "Bubba".

So from now on, when you see Bubba you will know who I am referring to.

Gobble, Gobble

2006-10-10T14:42:00.000-04:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

We just celebrated (Canadian) Thanksgiving this past weekend. Every year we take the 4 hour trek up north to visit our families for Thanksgiving. We are fortunate that both our families live within minutes of one another so C and I can travel between the two houses with ease and see everyone. My grandparents are also close by.

This year was a bit different with a child in tow. You have to take into consideration his sleep/eat schedule for a 4-hour tour. In addition, when we finally reached our destination, we had to plan our outings around naps, meals and bedtime. Before we even left, we had planned out our whole weekend around N's schedule, ensuring we saw everyone for an appropriate amount of time...or should I say, everyone saw N for an appropriate amount of time. We had all the necessities to ensure he was comfortable whereever we were, including toys, a portable high chair and the good old pack-n-play. There were also the needs of Mommy & Daddy to consider when planning such an event. We are used to enjoying two (yup two) turkey dinners, one as C's Mom's and one at my parent's house. You can't break 14 years of tradition.

We were able to stick to our plan, fit in all our visits, two turkey dinners and kept N on schedule no matter where we were. Unfortunately he's working on tooth #3 and sleeping was a bit of an issue for all of us, but we managed. N was also great with all the new faces and the hugs and kisses. He was good to go to people, hopefully he's growing out of this making strange phase. I must say, by Sunday night back in the familiar setting of Nanny & Bampa's he looked a bit distressed when my sister, brother-in-law, his mother and my mom's second cousin walked in for dinner. Of course, when cousin E entered the room, all was good again.

Hope you enjoyed your weekend and if you celebrated Thanksgiving were with family and friends and had a great time.

We have so much to be thankful this year!

Hand-me-downs ROCK!!!

2006-10-05T09:59:00.000-04:00

My "giant baby" is growing like a weed! He's 7 months (and a bit) old and he is 25 lbs and 33 inches long! You might be thinking he's tipping the scale in the fatty department, but he's not. He's off the charts for his age in both weight and height. I'm sure I've mentioned before that his birth parents (birth father particularily) are both tall people, so N towers over most kids his age. Both C and I are tall, so we all fit together nicely!

N is growing very quickly out of everything he owns. There is some stuff he wears only once and some not at all, because I didn't get to it soon enough!

Everynight after bath, we go through 2 or 3 sleepers before we find one that fits well enough so we can put him to bed comfortably. This is no easy task, because when N is tired, he's tired, and dressing him 2 and 3 times is not his ideas of a walk in the park. So I decided yesterday, while in "Wally World" (aka Wal-Mart) that I would pick up some more jammies for the kid. I got some 2-piecers to try and get a bit more life out of them...with an undershirt and socks, he's good to go a little longer than he would in a traditional sleeper. We got martian, emergency vehicle and workin' man jammies, 6 pairs in total.

We're also growing out of daytime clothes as well, so I decided before buying any of those, I should go through our 3 bins of hand-me-downs (we actually have 2 more that are size 2-4). I managed to find some 12-month stuff which he'll be into soon and guess what else I found...yup, jammies...tons of them! The jammie drawer is bursting at the seams now. The good news, I can probaby do N-laundry ever second week, because there are so many clothes! Can't complain about that. Keep the hand-me-downs coming!

Teeth Are Not For Biting

2006-09-28T13:35:00.000-04:00

Mark this day in your calendar...September 25th...the day N got his first tooth!!! We know they were coming because he had all the symptoms including being able to feel the bumps on his gums from the teeth pushing through.

Funny thing, is the way I discovered it. N likes to put EVERYTHING in his mouth and often when he holds our hands or fingers he does the same. While playing, he got a hold of one of my fingers and into the mouth, to which I said, "hey, there's something sharp in there!" I explored further to find a little tooth had pushed through on the bottom. AWESOME!!!

Of course said tooth can only be seen if he is crying, because there is NO WAY he will let you put your fingers in his mouth to feel around, nor will he let you hold his mouth open to take a peek. So we haven't seen the tooth much because we generally have a happy baby.

More on reaching major mile stones later as we are on the verge of crawling...boy oh boy is life going to change then!

Matthew 19:14

2006-09-25T21:57:00.000-04:00

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

On Saturday, September 23, 2006 N was baptized. This is the verse we chose for him. It is engraved on the back of his baptizmal charm.

The baptism was beautiful and our family and close friends were there to celebrate with us. N wore a Christening gown given to us by C's Mom and it was worn by all her children, including Daddy. My brother and his wife are N's Godparents.

At our church, the baptism is part of the mass. After the baptism, Father P took N to the front of the church and held him up for the whole congregation to welcom him as the parish's newest member. We have seen this before and most kids cry, but not our N. He looked around at all the people applauding and took it all in like some sort of rockstar.

Afterward we had everyone over to our house for a wonderful meal and small party. As the service was in the evening, the guest of honour was in bed while we celebrated his day for him.

The whole day and weekend was perfect. N was an angel during the service and we were able to get lots of pics and my whole family was there...we aren't often all in the same place twice.

Joyous Christening, Son.

Back from vacation

2006-09-19T14:35:00.000-04:00

Last week N and I went north to visit my parents for most of the week. Needless to say we (mostly N) were missed very much by Daddy who had to stay home and work. We had a great time visiting other family and just hanging out. N didn't sleep all that well...combination of new crib, new room, sleeping in the same room as Mommy and all the new strange noises of the house. The good news is that I didn't cook one meal while I was there. Actually, I didn't do much of anything in the work department, so it was nice.

My parents were looking after my niece E for the week (in the mornings) so we got to spend lots of time together. According to N she is the most entertaining person in the world. He was constantly laughing at her antics and when she moved out of his sight, he twisted and turned until he could see her again. She was even able to induce laughter (in between cries) when he woke from a nap early to find that Mommy had gone out and he was stuck with Nanny.

E seemed to enjoy N as well. For almost 2 years she was the only grandchild so this sharing business takes some getting used to. There was only one (almost) fit of rage directed at N. While I was out, Nanny was holding him to console him and she lifted the book she was holding above her head intending to hit N. Apparently she got "the look" from Nanny and changed her mind. The jealousy of a 2-year old is very powerful!

Coming back home was great. Nothing like your own bed, your own pillow and your own snoring husband. We hope to make another trek before Christmas. Once I go back to work in Feb. we won't be able to do these sorts of trips. My Mom & Dad really enjoyed N and by the end of our stay, he was really warming up to "Bampa" (Grandpa)...only took 6 months!

The Rat Race...Revisited

2006-09-05T14:47:00.000-04:00

Being a SAHM is great. I am really enjoying this lifestyle. I have never been happier or more tired in my entire life :) Of course, this is temporary and I will return to work in early 2007, so I do not often go looking for reminders of that fact.

However, this evening I am going to meet some of my colleagues for drinks and dinner. Don't get me wrong, I work with some really great people and there are some that have become great friends, people I would talk to daily, who I have a really connection with. Since N's arrival, I haven't been as diligent about making time for them (at least not daily)...for obvious reasons. I do miss the talks, but don't miss all the work stuff.

I want to see these people tonight because they are my friends, but I know there will be a lot of shop talk and it's just a reminder that I will be going back to work in 5 (very, very short) months. I enjoy what I do, I think I'm pretty good at it and like I mentioned, I work with great people...all things that help you love your job. I just don't want to talk about work right now...maybe I'm being selfish or childish about this, I don't know.

I am having a bit (actually a lot) of guilt about going back to work and maybe that's why I'm reluctant to go tonight. Of course I will and I know I'll have a good time seeing everyone and catching up on their lives as well as work...it's inevitable.

I guess I'll take my guilt trip later.

Almost there

2006-08-31T13:47:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow afternoon we are being visited by our Social Worker for her mandatory 6-month follow-up visit. This is our second last step in becoming a forever family (in the eyes of the law). The last step is our court date. After tomorrow's visit, Sandra files a report to the Ministry and our court date is assigned after it is reviewed. We are hoping to be in court before the end 2006.

This is somewhat similar to Russia (for those of you just tuning in, we were waiting to adopt from Russia when received THEE call about our son, a domestic, private adoption). The big difference between what we are doing and the Russian process is that we were able to have our son home with us from (almost) the beginning....definitely makes the wait for a court date a lot easier!!! One other significant difference is that we don't have to be present in court. Of course, we are going because we want to be there and it's a great opportunity to take a picture with the judge for N's Life Book...I really should start putting that together.

Even though N has been here almost the whole time, we are not considered his legal guardians. Our (his) lawyer is the legal guardian and he has the authority to name us the "caretakers". It's a bit strange because we can do just about anything we want. We can travel (in the country), as we don't have a birth certificate until after our court date to be able to apply for a passport. We are having him baptized at the end of September even though we haven't legalized the adoption. N has our surname. His health card is in our name, which was even issued to us before this day had passed.

So even though tomorrow's visit with Sandra is not stressful...not like the dust bunny inspection, I await it with a certain heightened anticipation. In a nutshell, she will be reporting on N's transition into our family, assessing his care and our ability to parent and whether he has bonded (attachment). Of course he's bonded...you would know that if you tried to hold him while Mommy was in the room!

I guess I'll tidy (the Angels were just here on Tuesday) up a bit to make sure the place is presentable.

I love this kid sooo much!

2006-08-28T14:32:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, our little boy was six months old! It amazes me how quickly time flies. I know, such an overused statement, but when you have kids this feeling becomes more real than ever. It's amazing how much he already knows in such a short time.

So here's a few things you might not know about this little cutie:

Noah has many nicknames: Fuzzy Bunny, Grumpy Pants, Boo-Boo (which often turns into Bubba or Booby). He also gets called Fancy Pants, Monkey Man, Complainy Pants, Grumpy Guts or Twinkle Toes. But my personal favourite is Tooty McFartsalot...C named him that and it's soooo appropriate.
He loves his bath...which wasn't always the case.
When one of us goes into his room at night after he has wakened, as soon as he sees us, he rolls on his side, grabs his bear in a death grip, closes his eyes and opens his mouth for his soother. It's hilarious...even at 2:00 AM.
He is very musical. He smiles when we sing, sometimes he even laughs.
He is a dancing fool. He especially loves to dance naked (before bath) in front of the mirror. We sing "Do a little dance, sing a little song (instead of make a little love - the real words), get down tonight", then he burls his little feet on the counter, smiling the whole time.
He is vane,vane, vane. He loves to look at himself in the mirror. There is a mirror on his play mat and you can often catch him holding the mirror against his face and kissing (licking) himself.
He loves to look at pictures of himself (hence #6). He loves to watch the pictures roll over the screen of the laptop. When he sees one of himself with Daddy, he smiles. When he sees one of himself with Mommy, he looks at me then the picture. He's a smart little cookie.
When he's really excited he growls.
He almost always wakes up in a great mood. He greets you with a huge, beautiful smile, kicking his legs and flailing his arms in excitement.
He loves the colour red.
N can raise one eyebrow at a time. Neither C or I can do this, so he's developed this skill on his own.
He is ticklish everywhere...just like Mommy.
With the exception of a few, his favourite toys are the ones purchased at garage sales.
N is a Momma's boy. He loves Daddy, don't get me wrong. If someone new holds him, he usually cries and looks at me, as if to say "save me". When he doesn't cry (which is rare) he doesn't take his eyes off of me and will strain, stretch and twist to follow me with his eyes if I move or leave the room...no attachment issues here!
He laughs at the funniest things. When C says 'is that too tight?", he giggles. If we make a buzzing sound, he giggles. If I sing and flair my hair around, he giggles. He's such a character.
He knows how to flirt. A few weeks ago in a restaurant, as the waitress took our order, he looked up at her, smiled and touched her side ever so gently. Of course, she was taken with him...like most women are. We are going to have to beat the girls off when he's older.
He loves people, except when they try to hold him (#14). He especially loves watching kids...they always make him smile.
He is so eager to show his smile, except when the camera is on. Then he just stares at the red light on the front with his mouth gaping open...not his best look.
He loves the phone. If he's a little grumpy, I will pick up our cordless phone and either turn it on so he hears the dial tone or press some buttons...both make him smile.
He loves books. Mostly he likes to chew them, but he will always listen to the story first.
Napping in his crib is OK, but napping in the stroller, the car, outside in his swing or in church is so much better.
He has developed dimples...just like Daddy.
His bellybotton collects water, just like Daddy.
He loves being outdoors, going for a walk or a swing or just sitting on the front step and watching cars. When we rented a cabin up north in July, he loved the patio surrounded by trees. He talked to them everytime he was outside.
He's tough as nails. He constantly bumps his head and it doesn't even fizz him. He had is two six-month shots today at the doctor's office and he let out two little wimpers. I think I was more upset by the needles than he was.

There is so many more wonderful things about Noah...I will save some for later post. We have been blessed with such a beautiful boy!

Sugar Rules!

2006-08-25T18:36:00.000-04:00

My baby is in the middle of a sugar rush. It's 6:30 in the evening and this has been going on for about 45 mintues.

We tried sweet potatoes for the first time for his dinner. We followed it up with some ripe banana. He's been growling, kicking, smiling, jumping and flaily his arms wildly...ever since. He can't focus on one toy for too long (at least much shorter than usual). He is now attacking all the toys in his exersaucer! It's like he's stoned!

It's the most hilarious thing I've ever seen!!! I just had to post about it.

K.I.S.S.

2006-08-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

Easy does it for me. I like to do things in the most simple way. Time is money as "they" say. You might say I look for the simple way out or take short cuts. I say I'm effecient.

I like to cook and entertain, but I will (usually) only use a gourmet recipe that's easy. I like to take the easiest/quickest route when I drive. I will plan to do things in a particular order, so there is no need to backtrack or do things twice. I almost always try to "kill two birds with one stone". I don't know if I've always been like this, but certainly as an adult I have been this way.

So the problem I have is kids' plush toys. My son has this cloth book that just happened to end up in his highchair. Normally, this book is not used during his mealtime, but ours, to offer him some entertainment while we eat. He loves this book! But this morning, I forgot to take it off the tray and N put it in his mouth...pablum and all. What a mess! "Oh well", I thought, "I'll just wash it". Well, guess what...it's surface wash only! What?!?

Then I checked a few other plush toys...all the same. What are these toy companies thinking? Don't they know that kids barf, eat everything, drop stuff on the floor or in the dirt. Now I can only surface wash these things! Unbelievalbe. That's not "easy peasy lemon squeezy". I just might a sternly worded letter to these companies telling them how I feel. Who am I kidding that's not easy either!

I'll just ask N to stop barfing on his toys...no problem :)

Now that I know you're reading...

2006-08-17T07:48:00.000-04:00

I've become obsessed with my sitemeter here at blogger, like most. I check it almost everyday and am amazed at the places from where In Our Own Backyard gets hits...all over the world. These lurkers don't usually...actually never comment. I want to know who you are.

But there was one I was particularily intersted in...an almost daily hit not far from home...and now I know who it is. We received an email congratulating Craig on his new job from my cousin who says she reads everyday!!! WOW, I had no idea my family was reading. It's a good thing I've behaved myself.

Now if I could just figure out who's hitting us from Germany?!?

Daddy's got a new gig!

2006-08-16T09:08:00.000-04:00

Congrats to my hubby on his new job! It will be nice to have him closer to home and arriving home after work each day.

Some history: late in 2005, my hubby applied for a job with our region doing what he does in the city of TO. Working in our region would mean closer to home, far less of a commute and more money! The week we found out about N, was the same week he had his final interview. He knew he was a shoe-in (so did I) but the timing wasn't the greatest. He hummed and hawed about the interview. When we discovered that we were going to have to take N out of town for foster care for a few weeks and the timing of that and the time/travel committment for us for the following weeks, he decided to try and reschedule, citing a "family emergency". They were very accomodating and he was able to do so.

Unfortunately, the reschedule still conflicted with our committment to our son and C felt strongly (as any good Dad would) about being with him and forgoing the interview even if it meant he had to wait to get the job. So he called the interviewer (his prospective boss) and explained the situation. She was so supportive and understanding. She told him that they were going to have to move on with the process but would like to interview him when we were settled back at home...that was March.

About 2 weeks ago, out of the blue, the HR person called and said there was an opening and would he be interested...YES! He dropped off some required paperwork within a few days and they called him back last Friday to discuss a start date. WOW! Two days prior to that we were hoping and wishing that would happen. I said to Craig that we needed to ask "The Big Guy" upstairs for a little help, even though we thought that we were all favoured-out...apparently not!

So after the Labour Day weekend, C starts his new job. We're not sure which of the three offices he'll be in, but the furthest would be a 35-40 minute drive vs. his current 1 1/2 hour commute (each way). The closest would be about 25-30 minutes away.

We have been blessed again.

To Ferberize or not to Ferberize...that is the question

2006-08-14T10:08:00.000-04:00

So I guess every parent gets to the point where they make the decision that (if their child(ren) don't sleep through the night) it's time to take some action. It's amazing that the second question I get asked after "how old is he?" is, " is he sleeping through the night yet?" Then I have to hear about their kids that slept through the night at 8 weeks or from birth (is that even possible) or whatever.

Our son is 5 1/2 months old and we have been having some sleep issues. I'm sure by writing this post, I will jinx all the hard work and success we've had over the past week or so..."paranoia will destroy ya".

Anyway, we were struggling with napping throughout the day - 1/2 hour naps or 4-5 short naps a day and then up a million times in the night. If N could talk, I'm sure he was saying "Um, can one of you two help me, I've seemed to have lost my soother again." So we came to a point where we wanted to get sleep. We've had many friends that have used The Ferber Method with success and others who have been lucky and their kids just slept through the night with very little or no intervention.

We decided to do a little research and have effectively (someone knock wood with me) Smitherized our son. We have combined three different and extreme opposite sleep plans into one and made it our own.

1) The Ferber Method - basically the jist of it is putting your child down sleepy or almost asleep and leaving the room. In essence you are teaching him/her to learn to fall asleep on his/her own. When the crying starts, you wait a predetermined amount of time, go in for 1-2 minutes for reassurance and leave again to wait another increased predetermined time. Then back in and out for a third increased time and then in & out for the same amount of time as the third until your child falls asleep on his/her own (ideally, while you are out of the room). So we started with 1 minute, then 3, then 5. The next night you increase your intervals and should have success after a few days to 2 weeks. The intervals work for us because we both wanted to go in almost immediately, so it forces you to stay out and let the child work things out.

When you go in, you're not supposed to pick them up...OK. But what we didn't like from the recommendations is that you're not supposed to touch them, pat their back, kiss them, etc. Also, you leave the room after 1-2 minutes whether they are still screaming uncontrollably or not. Also, "if your child vomits (from crying) go in, clean it up very matter factly without picking them up and leave the room immediately after." More research necessary...

2) The Baby Whisperer (Tracy Hogg) - She is almost the polar opposite to Ferber. She suggests putting the baby to bed in an almost asleep state as well and also waiting intervals of some sort, although she's not very definitive about what they should be and then she suggests when you go into the room to calm your child by patting his/her back and saying "sh sh sh sh" constantly. This combination is similar to the womb and apparently calming. She also suggests that after the baby is calmed you "observe" for a minute before leaving the room again, and repeat. We liked the calming him and observing part...even if we are leaving when he's still in some sort of awake stage.

We also liked her teachings about watching for the three sleep stages. 1) rubbing eyes and yawning, 2) the "seven-mile stare" and 3) the slow eye blinks (nodding off). It really helped to know those signs. All babies do this? you ask...yes they do. There will be 3-5 slow blinks before they fall asleep and this is when you put them in the bed. She describes this as a 7 on a scale of 1-10; 1 being totally awake and 10 being comatose.

3) The no-cry sleep solution (Elizabeth Pantely) - I didn't find an actual method here. Pantely suggests to do what works for you without letting them scream it out. She did say whatever you decide to do, you must be totally ready to do it and to not look back...so true. So if you enjoy the 2 AM feed or having your child in your bed or rocking him/her to sleep...then you're not ready to commit to any sleep method.

What we liked about her book was the various sleep helpers. She had some tips on how to get your child to nap longer. Our son had two 1/2 hour morning naps and she suggests that a child needs at least an hour, so she suggested camping outside their room close to the usual waking time and going in as soon as they stir to put them back to sleep with whatever method works for you...the soother is ours...at the moment.

She also has a seemingly great method for getting rid of the soother, which we haven't tried yet, but will. But it's a lot gentler and gradual than the Ferber "take it out and don't give it back method".

All encourage a set bedtime and solid bedtime routine that should never change. We do bath, close the blinds and turn on the music with N while talking about going to sleep, turn on his little lamp, feed him his bedtime bottle and read 3 books before relaxing him to a "7" and putting him to bed. Naptime is similar without the bath and bottle. After he wakes, we open the blind and turn off the stereo (the music is long done, but it's part of the routine). He has even started reaching for the blinds to "help" open or close them.

Smitherized: So our combination is the timed intervals from Ferber with the calming back patting and 1-minute observation from The Baby Whisper along with the napping suggestions from Pantley.

Whatever method you decide to use, you have to be comfortable with what you are doing. Don't just do it to get rest, but be uncomfortable with the reaction your child is giving you or wish you were doing something different, because you will probably give up and be more miserable. We have had success (please knock wood with me again). I must go now, as N is up from his ...a solid hour and a half...WOO HOO (again with the knocking of the wood, please).

Some of Life's Luxuries

2006-08-12T08:43:00.000-04:00

It's so easy to take the simplest things for granted. Since N has arrived and especially since C went back to work, it is interesting what I now find to be a luxury. Sure going out to dinner to a nice restaurant or going to a concert or to a jazz club in TO are still luxuries...MAJOR luxuries.

Now the things I used to take for granted have become the REAL luxuries in life. For instance, taking a shower (when I want) is a real feat these days. Now the shower is a rushed experience during nap or showering with the door open so N can see me. He's becoming aware of his environment and doesn't like when he can't see me for a few minutes at a time. It's funny, because when I was growing up my father was always harping that I should be able to take a shower in 8 minutes...don't ask me why 8. I always secretly joked with my sibs that he could do that because he didn't have any hair. But, now I would make him proud. Eight minutes is child's play!

Out of milk, no problem. I'll just scoot out the the store and get some...NOT! Scooting out to the store requires careful strategic planning and has to be timed between naps or feedings. Going to get "just milk" is a major undertaking. So, if you're going to the grocery store with an infant, you better make it worth while and get more than milk.

SLEEP...need I say more!

I am not complaining...although it may seem that way. I would not change my life for the world. I love my son and every minute with him. Our life has taken an major paradigm shift. I not only need to have his day planned and scheduled, but my own too! Would I love to take a fifteen minute hot shower (with the door closed) or scoot out to the store to check out a sale or sleep when I want...sure...and when C is home on the weekend, we are able to do just that.

I can wait 5 days to have a little luxury...because missing out on a long shower, a hot sale or a few extra Z's is hugely outweighed by the gorgeous little creature that God has given us!

Now that's perspective!

Still Here

2006-08-03T16:22:00.000-04:00

I know, I know, I haven't posted in a while and for those two people that actually read this blog, I want you to know that I'm still here. Life is hectic and I have so many ideas for posts, but I can't seem to find the time.

I do have to correct my last post (since deleted) to be re-posted...and then watch out 'cause I just might become a posting machine...or I'll just continue doing what I'm doing now which is reading everyone else's blogs and neglecting my own.

It's a long weekend here so we're off to the cottage...major family shin-dig with Beach Olympics, a "Talent" Show (for the untalented) and lots and lots of F-U-N!

Catch ya on the flip side.

Happy 40th Birthday!

2006-07-18T10:48:00.000-04:00

Tuesday was C's 40th birthday! Happy Birthday Honey!

We celebrated with about 30 family and friends on Saturday. It was a surprise (mostly) party that I had been planning for months. I was hiding and storing stuff at our friends' house and secretly meeting a caterer. I even had a secret email account to send out invitations and receive secret birthday messages.

We had a great time, wonderful weather, great food and fun with family and friends. We "roasted" C and there were lots of gag gifts for Craig to open.

On Tuesday, the actual birthday, we had a quiet day together. It started with coffee in bed with the delivery of birthday presents from N and myself. We topped the day off with a wonderful dinner (cooked by me) and ice cream cake from DQ...C's favourite.

After N was in bed, we broke out our fire pit and had a small fire, cigar and a few glasses of port. It was a great day.

Oh, by the way, C is off this week so a late Tuesday night is OK.

A new cousin!

2006-07-12T15:31:00.000-04:00

We have a new family member! A baby girl, IG, was born yesterday at 4:08 AM, 6 lbs 11 oz and 16 in. long to my brother and his girlfriend. Everyone is so happy.

My brother is the proud Papa and says she's so beautiful. I'm sure she is! I can't wait to meet her. I think a few of us will be heading their way on Sunday to meet the new bundle of joy.

She is the third grandchild on my side of the family and the first for my brother's girlfriend's family. At only 16 inches long, she will be a squirt compared to N (now 26 inches long at 4 months) and cousin E who is also a very tall 2-yr old. I know they will love her and be good to her.

So congrats for out to M&J on the birth of I. I can't wait to meet her and spoil her.

Insects & Cowboys

2006-07-06T10:01:00.000-04:00

I think you'll agree that sleep is very important for an infant. We are struggling a bit with sleeping through the night still, but our daytime routine is (somewhat) set. Our little guy is too young to "Ferberize", so we still console him to put him to sleep for naps and at night. I have been reading up on this Ferber method and am a bit sceptical. If we do it, we will likely modify it to suit our comfort zone...particularily the "letting your child cry until he barfs is OK" part...NOT!

I'll admit we do some no-no's like picking him up out of bed when he's upset to rock him back to sleep instead of consoling him while he's in his bed, letting him fall asleep on us and sometimes take a short nap there instead of his bed. At times, when he won't go back into his bad (typically in the middle of the night) we have brought him into our bed, so we can get some sleep. These are all things we shouldn't be doing...especially the co-bedding, but we're new, he's new and we're working on it!

We have both found things that will either relax or calm him or put him to sleep. C started singing the song "Burning Ring of Fire" to N one night out of the blue during a screaming fit after bath and he calmed down. Now, that song works everytime. I was even singing it, but decided that I needed my own song. A couple of weeks ago I started singing a bunch of random kid songs trying to put N to sleep and have found that, without fail, "The Ants Go Marching In" works like a charm.

It's funny what works, but it's so important to find that for your child and also for your own sanity. One song about love and another about bugs...for our LOVE BUG!

Morning Glory Turned Night Hawk

2006-07-04T08:45:00.000-04:00

BF (Before Kids...or kid in out case), I was always in bed before 10 PM. Usually, it was more like 9 PM and by "in bed", I mean asleep on the couch in front of the TV snoring to my little heart's content, drowning out whatever show my husband was attempting to enjoy.

My husband on the other hand is a night hawk. He loves (loved) to stay up late watching wacky stuff on the space channel or TLC...no thanks. He is a "sleeper inner"...so I guess opposites do attract.

Believe me, I wanted to stay up later, especially on weekends because I could sleep in the next day...or dream about sleeping in because I've never really been able to do that. I attribute that to my parents never allowing us to sleep past 9 AM as teenagers. When all my other friends we sleeping until noon, I was up and doing housework by 9 AM. I'm sure I'm a better person for it...not a better housekeeper...hence the housekeeping fairies I have.

I have this uncanny ability to sleep anywhere, during a party (even if I don't drink), in the car, in front of the TV. I once fell asleep while my father and husband drilled holes for wiring through 2x6's in our rec room ceiling. I woke up with wood shavings all over me...they thought it was hilarious. Of course, my father can't sleep in and can fall asleep anywhere as well, so maybe that's where I get it.

Now that N has arrived, the sleeping habits have completely flipped. As I am staying at home, it only makes sense that I do the late night top-up (in an attempt to encourage sleeping through the night...NOT working), get up for the wake-ups in the night and get up with N in the morning...at least during the work week.

I am staying up and watching TV, while C is falling asleep on the couch and crawling into bed far earlier than I have ever known him too. On the weekend, when Craig takes over some of these duties, I SLEEP IN.

Yeah I know, wierd eh?

Happy Canada Day!!!

2006-06-30T07:25:00.000-04:00

July 1 is Canada Day. It has been 139 years since confederation. Canadians celebrate this holiday much like many other countries celebrate their national day. There will be celebrations in the parks, face painting, balloons, special sales (for those stores that remain open), flag waving and of course the day will be topped off with fireworks celebrations in every city, town and nook & cranny of the country.

Our family will be celebrating out of town this year. We all have our Canada Day t-shirts and 2 cans of "Canadian" Beer, which is not my favourite brand, but I must conform on this special day.

We leave sometime this morning and are travelling about an hour north to a cabin we have rented. It will be our first family vacation since N's arrival and we are pumped! We have rented a rustic little one bedroom cabin at a small family resort. They have a beach and a pool, no TV (we're missing some major World Cup action, but will have the lap top and some DVD's). We chose this place for the pool, as N can't wear sunscreen yet, the beach is out. We have a special one piece bathing suit and a floating device with a canopy and we have a blow-up pool for our deck as well. He'll probably hate the water, but we're ready in case he can't get enough. Either way, we hope to relax and hang out...just the three of us.

To all my American friends, Happy Independence Day...hope your celebrations are just as eventful.

Happy Canada Day to all my Canadian friends. Oh Canada!

Discoveries

2006-06-28T12:17:00.000-04:00

N is in major discovery mode with everything. He has already discovered his hands. He now knows how to use his hands to get stuff in his mouth.

He loves watching TV. He and Daddy watching hockey together.

He has discovered the outdoors and spends every chance he gets gazing out the window.

He has discovered his feet and loves to look at them.

He was recently introduced to rice cereal which he has discovered SUCKS!!!

N has also discovered the object that entertain him. This is how we entertain him during dinner...whatever works, right?

More on discoveries later.

I'm a Technotard

2006-06-28T07:58:00.000-04:00

I don't know how to update the date of a post to make it the next in line, so here's a link to one I've been working on...in case you didn't want to miss it.

Happy Father's Day

2006-06-19T17:50:00.000-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers and Fathers-to-be out there.

We had a wonderful Father's Day with C. N & I started the day with a light breakfast in bed. We showered Daddy with kisses and a gift from his #1 son. It was the cutest picture frame with this picture in it...one of our favourites.

We then all got dressed for a 2-hour cruise on the lake in our town. It was a Father's Day Brunch and a tour of the lake. We had a wonderful time. N was great and really enjoyed it too.

We then had a leisurely drive around town looking at houses and rested for the afternoon.

Fathers are special people.

I left my baby with someone else!

2006-06-16T15:44:00.000-04:00

Today was the first day I left N with a caregiver. We just started having a sitter come in for a few hours on Fridays. We have known this woman for 5 years. She was the one of the caregivers for my cousins twins. She also used to walk our dog in the last 18 months of his life. She would take him out for a pee and spend some time with him while we worked. So it's not like she's a stranger.

She's been a few times to meet N and two Fridays ago spent three hours here. I stayed at home, and did stuff around the house while she took care of N. He made strange at first, but got comfortable pretty quickly.

Today, I was nervous, I'll admit, about leaving him. I actually felt a bit guilty...I don't know why. I almost cried when I left...how pathetic am I? Anyway, I got some errands done, shopped for myself, etc. I was only gone for about 2 hours and N was good as gold while I was gone. I shouldn't be surprised. I just thought he would have a freak out once he realized I was gone. He's probably too young to realize that anyway.

When I did get home, he was napping and when he woke up, he was happy to see his Mommy and I snuggled with him for a while. I really missed him. What's it going to be like if/when I go back to work...lots of time to think about that I guess.

So now every Friday, I have about three hours to myself and I don't need to worry about N. I could get used to that :)

A Smattering of Kisses

2006-06-08T08:44:00.000-04:00

Someone asked me a while ago, while visiting Noah & I, "do you think you can ever kiss him too much?"

What, are you new??? Have you ever heard such a thing in your life? The answer would be a resounding NO!

A kiss means so much to a child, especially when they are little and don't understand your words, your "I love yous". A kiss is affection, it can be playful, it's LOVE and it's needed. I must kiss Noah 1000 times or more a day. You can kiss a baby's head, their cheeks, their little button noses, their feet, hands, belllies...and the list goes on.

There is no such thing as too much love. So if you ever feel you have kissed your child enough, perhaps you don't understand the meaning of love.

Letters to Noah...Road Trip

2006-06-07T08:27:00.000-04:00

Thursday, March 2, 2006

Today Mommy & Daddy were going to be able to take you out of the hospital. Unfortunately, we wouldn't be taking you home right away, but we'd be spending the rest of our lives together.

Today would be a day of many firsts...first road trip, first snow storm, first visit to McDonalds, first time peeing on Mommy, first sleep over :(

We were up early...sleep is not needed when you are this excited! We packed the rest of the stuff you'd need in the car and went to the hospital. We were supposed to meet everyone (the lawyer and Sandra) at 10:00 AM, but we wanted a few hours with you on our own. We arrived around 8:00 AM. You were just getting up and were ready for a morning feed.

Daddy had his first feed with his little man.

As we waited in the hospital, we held you and kissed you and got lots of advice from the nurse on the shift. We did not want to leave. Soon though the lawyer and Sandra arrived and we knew we would have to go soon. The nurse started doing her release paperwork and then noted that you were a bit jaundice and she though perhaps too much to leave the hospital today (YEAH)! She called the doctor to check you out and he order tests to check out your levels. The nurse that came to do your jaundice test was not very nice (or so Mommy & Daddy thought) and she hurt our baby! After she was done, Mommy cuddled you to calm you down...I loved that.

While we waited for your test results, we cuddled and kissed you more. We were hoping for an extra day or two. But when the tests came back, you were ok to leave the hospital. Boo, we would have to take you to Foster Care afterall. We started getting you packed up. The nurse gave us everything out of your crib (because they don't use it twice) and she also gave us some bottles of formula...FREEBIES!

While you were getting packed up, Mommy left the room for a few minutes and got lost on my way back. One of the nurses asked if she could help and I said, "I'm looking for my son, Noah." She said, "Oh, I know where Noah is!" Everyone knew who you were and about 5 nurses came by to say goodbye to you and give you kisses. Mommy & Daddy were so touched. We had been worried because we hadn't been able to see you until you were 2 days old, but the nurses were giving you extra love and kisses until we arrived.

Then it was time to go. It was very cold out, so Daddy warmed up the car and pulled it up to the front of the hospital and we all got in for our drive south. Daddy drove and Sandra sat up front with him. I got to sit right beside my little man and hold your hand the whole way to the Foster Home.

As we drove we listened to the news because there was a bad snow storm where we were going. We had all packed an overnight bag just in case we had to stop. As we drove, you slept. you were definitely going to love the car.

A little while after driving, we decided to stop for lunch and you were starting to stir and wanted to be fed. The first place we came to was McDonalds! Although you haven't been since, we are sure you will visit again. Daddy, Mommy and Sandra were able to get some lunch and you were too. When I changed your diaper, you took advantage of the cold air and peed on Mommy's arm...the first of many of these incidents. I didn't mind though and we got you cleaned up no problem.

Soon after we left McDonalds, it started to snow. It snowed HARD and there was lots on the ground. We had to slow down and we started to see lots of accidents. Daddy is such a good driver and was very careful with his special cargo on board. The other side of the highway had been closed because of accidents and as we drove by it started it to open up and there were bare spots under all of the cars because they had been parked for so long!

Eventually we got through the accidents and most of the snow and arrived at the Foster Home. Mommy & Daddy were nervous about meeting the people (F&B) who would provide care for you until we were allowed to bring you home with us. When we arrived, we visited for a bit, asking about when we cold visit you...ANYTIME!!! F asked about you and your birth.

While F&B ate their dinner, Mommy & Daddy changed and fed you. While we were changing you, Daddy said, "I don't want to leave him." Neither did I. We were very sad about this. It is amazing how quickly we bonded and fell in love with you. It hurt our hearts to think that we would be spending the night with you.

After we fed you, Sandra suggested we see your room and where you'd be sleeping, which I'm glad she did. You were sleeping in a carriage! No crib! Mommy was not pleased about this and vowed to change that as soon as possible!

Then it was time to leave. We kissed you and hugged you and told you how much we loved you. We would be back the next day, but it was so hard to leave. Both Mommy & Daddy tried not to cry in front of F&B. We waited until we got in the car. We would be back tomorrow (Friday), so it was very bitter, sweet.

We had a pretty quiet ride home. We stopped for dinner and talked about you the whole way home. We did a little work with Sandra on the way home and finally around 11:00 PM we dropped Sandra off at her car and went home. When we got home, we downloaded our pictures of the day and sent a note to our family about our day.

Until tomorrow little man.

Letters to Noah...Our First Meeting

2006-06-07T08:20:00.000-04:00

Day 3 (continued): Wednesday March 1, 2006

Mommy & Daddy met at home around 6:00 PM. We were both so excited about going to meet you! We made sure we had the camera and went to Canadian Tire to buy some batteries...we did not want to run out of batteries on such a momentous occasion! As we drove to the hospital we wondered what you looked like. We were both so excited to meet you!!!

We met the lawyer in the lobby of the hospital a little before 7:00 PM. As we walked to the maternity ward, he was telling us which way to turn and what elevator to take. I hoped Daddy & I would remember this the next day when we were on our own. When we got to the nursery, we found that you were in the NICU (only because there was no room in the regular nursery). Before we could go in, we had to wash our hands. We couldn't see you yet, but we were both wondering which crib was yours.

Then Mommy & Daddy entered the NICU and were introduced to you. We can't describe the feelings we had. We were both so happy and choked up with tears (of joy). Mommy & Daddy both walked to your crib and said 'hi' and touched you for the first time. You were GORGEOUS!!! It was love at first sight! How lucky we were to have you!

We were then introduced to the nurse...she said she was so excited to finally meet your parents. She asked your name and when we told her, she said he looks like a Noah. We thought so too. The lawyer left us with you and we were able to start to get to know one another.

You were ready to be fed so Mommy changed your diaper...it had been a while since I had changed a baby's diaper. Then the nurse gave us a bottle and we sat in the rocking chairs side by side and Mommy fed you. After your feed, Daddy held you too. It was so wonderful to hold you and kiss you and smell your sweet baby smell. We took lots of pictures and some video.

We were only able to be with you a few hours because we had to go out and buy you a car seat and some necessities for your travel to and stay at the foster home. We were very sad to leave you the first evening, but knew that we would be back the next day to see you and take you with us. After lots of holds and hugs and kisses (and pictures) we said goodnight to you, our son.

After Mommy & Daddy left the hospital, we went to Wal-Mart to buy the things we needed. We raced around as the store was closing soon. We got the stuff we needed without any trouble. We did keep asking the sales clerk questions. I'm sure we were delaying her from going home, but she was good to help us with everything we needed.

After Wal-Mart, we decided to get some dinner. We ate at Wendy's (in the parking lot). We decided to make a few more phone calls to tell some people about our son. We had already called Granny and Nanny & Grandpa to tell them about their grandson. We then called our close friends (S&R and V&T). We were supposed to go away on the coming weekend to a cabin up north, but when we told them about you, the were so happy that we were canceling!

After trying to get a few more outfits and things for you at a few more stores, we went home. Mommy & Daddy were so happy...all we could talk about was you!

When we got in, Daddy put your car seat together and secured it safely in the car, while Mommy washed your new outfits and packed your suitcase for your time in foster care. When we finally went to bed, we downloaded our pictures from our first meeting and sent an email to the small group of family & friends that knew about our GREAT news!

Mommy & Daddy definitely had our best day ever!

Letters to Noah...Meeting Noah

2006-06-07T08:14:00.000-04:00

Day 3: Wednesday, March 1, 2006

Another almost sleepless night the previous night and Mommy & Daddy are both wired for sound. We were both on a natural high and still running on adrenaline...thank God that's available. We are not sure what to expect today. We had been told previously by our lawyer that we could not visit you until the birth mother had been released from the hospital...her wishes...and he didn't expect that to be until Thursday.

Mommy tried to get some work done that day. I remember thinking this time next week, I probably won't be here. I had a lot to wrap up and was trying to do that inconspicuously. I had a meeting that I attended (physically) and had my Wednesday morning training session with the person meant to replace me...I hoped I was able to do that some justice.

About mid-morning, Mommy's boss came to see her. He had suspected something was up since Monday...darn intuitive HR people! This is how our conversation went:

Mommy's Boss: You look like you swallowed a canary. What's going on?

Mommy: Things are moving along nicely in the adoption.

Mommy's Boss: Are we still talking you leaving in the same timeline, beginning of June? We had sort of guessed that might be the timeline based on Russia and had been working towards it.

Mommy: It's going to be earlier than that.

Mommy's Boss: How much earlier are we talking?

Mommy: Next week.

Mommy's Boss: Congratulations

Mommy: I can't give you a lot of detail right now, but should be able to early next week. Oh by the way, I also need tomorrow off (this was in addition to the Friday & Monday I already had booked).

Smiling, he agreed and walked out of my office. He wasn't exactly prepared for that answer, but has known all along about the adoption and I had been training someone...what are you to do.

Around 3:00, the lawyer called. He indicated that the birth mother had reviewed our profile and had officially chosen Mommy & Daddy as your adoptive parents! She said she liked that we seemed so relaxed and were very family-oriented. That's us. WOOHOO!!!

He also told Mommy that the hospital is full and you were going to be released the following day to foster care in southern Ontario. He told me the birth mother was still in hospital until likely the following day...could we be at the hospital around 10:00 AM? Absolutely we could! We were going to meet our son!

We discussed logistics. He asked if Sandra could be available to drive with us to the foster home? We needed someone impartial. Then it dawned on me...WE NEED A CAR SEAT! We have nothing for an infant...no car seat, no clothes, no diapers. We will need to go to Wal-Mart!

I then called Daddy to tell him the great news! We knew there was a Wal-Mart close to home. Daddy happened to have a dentist appointment that evening. So once again...you guessed it...I asked Daddy if he could leave work early and push his dentist appointment up so we could go to Wal-Mart to get some very important stuff for you. So we made plans to meet at home after Daddy's appointment and get the basic necessities to get our son to the foster home.

I then called Sandra to see if she would be available to meet us at the hospital the next morning and go with us for the day. Of course, she said she would love to accompany us. We were set.

Now I was in speedy mode, trying to get my office cleaned and wrap stuff up, because I am definitely going to be off for some time!

Unexpectedly, at about 5:00, I received a call from the lawyer.

Lawyer: Are you still at work?

Mommy: Yes.

Lawyer: Can you be at the hospital at 7:00. The birth mother has been released and you can see your son tonight!

Mommy: Yes!!!!! We'll be there! My head is spinning, as we have so many things to do...but none of it is as important as meeting our son! The moment we have been waiting for....forever....is about to arrive.

I called Daddy right away...I don't remember how our conversation went...all I remember is the sheer excitment we both had.

On the way home, Daddy called Granny and Mommy called my Nanny and Grandpa. Mommy also called my Auntie Angela, Uncle Andrew and Uncle Mike, as they still didn't know about our news! This is turning out to be one of our best days ever!

The best part of this part of the story will have to wait as "Mr. Toots A Lot" is requiring nourishment. Sorry to leave you hanging, but trust me, it'll be worth it.

Letters to Noah...It's a Boy!

2006-06-07T08:09:00.000-04:00

Day 2: Tuesday, February 28, 2006

After about four hours sleep, dreaming about our adoption, day 2 was a lot of waiting around. Had our child been born yet? Had the lawyer been to see the birth mother? When were we going to get the next call?

After worrying myself all morning without a call from the lawyer, Mommy finally called Daddy at noon and we decided that I would wait until 1:00 to call the lawyer. I like to give myself timelines when I'm waiting for something. Somehow, time goes by faster that way.

At 1:00 I called the lawyer. He had indicated that he had been to see the birth mother and the baby had been born the night before and was doing fine. He asked to meet with us that day. So we made an appointment for 5:00.

I called Daddy to ask him to leave early (again) that day to meet with the lawyer. I told him the baby had been born. He asked me if it was a girl or boy? I didn't ask! What kind of mother was I going to be??? Once again I wasn't thinking straight!

At 5:00, we met the lawyer. The first question Daddy asked was boy or girl? It's a boy!!!

We were so pleased! I asked birth weight and time, but he didn't have that kind of detail...a bit too much to ask I guess. He said the baby was doing very well.

As our lawyer went through all the legal mumble jumble, I took copious amounts of notes because I wasn't thinking straight and wouldn't remember what he had said if I didn't. About half way through our meeting, the lawyer talked about his meeting with the birth mom. She had told him that she wanted to choose us as your adoptive parents! Although she hadn't seen our profile yet, we were excited, none-the-less. Of course, we wanted to ensure she was making an informed decision, so it was important to get the profile to the lawyer the next day.

Then, the best thing happened...the lawyer was talking about his OHIP (health) card and said the card would go in our (last) name.

Lawyer: What's the baby's name? Daddy and I looked at each other. We had been sitting on this name for almost two years!

Daddy: We haven't told anyone the name we have chosen.

Lawyer: Well you have to tell me.

Daddy: We get to name our son?

Lawyer: Yes. He doesn't have a name yet.

Daddy & Mommy: Noah Christopher! (I added, "you can't tell anyone")

After our meeting, we were on cloud nine! When we got home, we decided that we should call Nanny & Grandpa and Granny. To date, we hadn't told anyone. We called my Nanny & Grandpa first. They were overjoyed! Nanny cried, so did Mommy. We told them about the previous two days and how everything had unfolded. They loved your name.

Next, we called Granny. Once again, Mommy cried. Granny was also overjoyed! She loved your name as well. Your second name is Grandpa Smith's name and Granny was so pleased that we had chosen it.

Daddy & Mommy worked to touch up our profile for your birth mom. We were both on cloud nine all night. We had a son! Until we meet little man...

Letters to Noah...I should explain

2006-06-07T07:58:00.000-04:00

If you are reading this blog for the first time I should explain "Letters to Noah". Even if you have been following since our "Russian to Noah's Place" blog, we haven't posted a Letter to Noah in some time.

We created Letters to Noah to chronicle the events since meeting our son. Our plan is to write them for your readding pleasure, but more importantly for his Life Book so he can read them when he is older. These letters are designed to tell some of his life story. I am going to add in the previous ones written...I'd love to link them to our old site, but they've changed and you would need a password...it's all very complicated, so I will attach them here and write more (I promise).

Letters to Noah: A Miracle Phone Call

Day 1: Monday, February 27, 2006

This was a typical Monday...both Mommy & Daddy had lots to do and a busy day at work ahead of us.

At about 10:15 AM Mommy received a phone call from Dr. K who is a colleague of Mommy's doctor, Dr. J. He introduced himself and started telling me about a patient who was going to deliver a baby that day. His patient had an adoption plan for her baby. Dr. K had been told about Mommy & Daddy's adoption plans (to Russia) and asked if we were interested in adopting his patient's baby.

Wow! What a way to start my day. Mommy was so excited and immediately said yes, even though she hadn't talked to Daddy yet. I was pretty sure he would say YES too!

Doctor: I am a colleague of Dr. J (Mary's family doctor). Have you spoken with her in the past few days.

Mommy: No. I had just been to see my doctor a few months earlier and had some blood work done...was there something wrong???

Doctor: I have a patient in my office right now who is due to deliver today and wants to place her baby for adoption. Dr. J told me you and your husband are pursuing an international adoption. Would you be interested in a domestic placement? I can't quite describe the euphoria. My mind is racing.

Mommy: Yes. I haven't asked my husband, but yes..we're interested.

Doctor: I guess I should have asked if you were sitting down before I sprang that on you. We both laugh...I had been sitting...I wonder if I would have fallen down if I had not.

Mommy was so excited as the Dr. told me what I had to do next. I was taking notes so I wouldn't forget anything. I didn't ask any logical questions...actually I think the only question I asked is 'what do I do now?' I didn't know where you were going to be born, how far along the birth mom was or anything else. I guess I was in shock! We decided that our adoption practioner, Sandra, would contact him and we would get the ball rolling. What a way to start the day!

I immediately called Daddy. I had trouble getting a hold of him. First I tried his office phone. There was no answer, so I tried his cell phone...no answer. I called his pager him...no return call. I tried the office phone again, still no answer, so I dialed through to reception and had him paged. He was not answering the page, so I left a message for him to call me. I wanted so badly to talk to him and tell him our exciting news.

I thought I had better call Sandra to start our adoption. She answered her phone. Mommy was very relieved! I told her about my call with the Doctor. She was so excited too. There were so many things up in the air, things could change as quickly as they had happened. She was going to call the Doctor and the Lawyer and start our adoption.

Finally Daddy called me back! We were both so excited! We couldn't believe it! Just the day before we were planning a trip south and costing out airline tickets to Russia. Life has a funny way of working out.

All day, Mommy was on the phone with Sandra, Daddy and our new lawyer. I got absolutely no work done. I couldn't focus. I was imagining my son...even though at this time you hadn't been born and we didn't know if you were a boy or girl. I guess, I've thinking about a son for so long that my thoughts were automatic.

Later in the day, Sandra called to say that Daddy & I would need a "profile" for the birth mom to review. We had never done one because we hadn't pursue a domestic placement. We didn't even know where to start and we had to have it done for the following day!!! Luckily, Sandra was able to fax me a couple of samples. Daddy & I left early from work to get started...little did we know that leaving work early was going to be a trend that week.

When we met at home, we hugged...a long, happy hug, I cried (tears of joy). We were so blessed to have gotten this call.

We were both recounting the day, as we mixed ourselves a celebratory drink and started on our profile. It took about 5 hours to complete, although we ended up touching it up the next day. I think typically, you would spend more time on such an important document, but time was not on our side and we had a great inspiration to get it done!!!

We finally got to bed, but at about 2 AM we both took a gravol to help us sleep...the beginning of our sleepless nights. I dreamt all night about our baby, so did Daddy.

What would tomorrow bring...

World Records & Other Fun Stuff

2006-06-05T15:51:00.000-04:00

We are working on a few things. First of all, we keep the Guiness people's number handy. Our son is trying to be the first baby EVER to put both fists in his mouth...at the same time!

He is also working on his baby potbelly. Our company on the weekend commented how cute his little "big" belly was. My husband asked why noone ever told him his belly was cute???

While Daddy is at work, Noah & I spend our days eating, napping and playing with our various favourite toys. We like to also try to get out for a walk...for Mommy's sanity! I am trying everything I can think of to make Noah laugh. So far he only laughs in his sleep...he sounds like Ernie from Sesame Street...it's soooo cute!

Our newest toy is the Bumbo chair (featured here).

This is the latest and is designed to give babies an opportunity to sit up before they are actually ready, as long as they can hold their head up. Noah quite likes it, as when he is sitting, he can see his toes....and they are the most fascinating things on earth.

The Bumbo people do caution consumers that the Bumbo chair is not a booster and should not be used on high surfaces. Apparently Daddy didn't read these instructions...I was obviously out of the room.

We are all having so much fun!

Getting a little cabin fever here...

2006-05-31T10:25:00.000-04:00

It's only Wednesday and it feels like it's been a long week already. Not to mention that for the second day in a row, we've been up since 5:30 and although it's only 10:25, it feels like the middle of the afternoon.

The weather here has been unbelievable. The heatwave is here, as it is almost everywhere. Monday and Tuesday were far, far, far too hot and HUMID to take N outside for a walk. With the humidex it was between 38C & 42C!!! That's 'I can't breathe' weather. And today, of course it's raining. I need to go outside!

N still has his cold (and Mommy has it too). This cold has created some new behaviour. First of all, we have stopped eating...well not entirely, but only a few ounces at a time vs. 6 oz every 4 or so hours. When he should be eating (according to the schedule he's had since birth) he doesn't want to and screams when the bottle is put in his mouth. When he does finally decid to eat, he only eats a few ounces and usually falls asleep during the feed. I normally wouldn't condone "grazing", but he's sick so I'm letting him do it so he'll eat something. Of course, he's hungry and has digressed to getting up in the night again. Go figure, this is the only time he takes a whole bottle.

Sleeping has also taken on new meaning as well. N has taken to cat napping for most of the day since Sunday. The extra sleep is due to the cold, I know, but the naps are at most an hour (which is rare...more like 30-45 minutes) at a time. The poor little guy is really out of sorts. I am letting him sleep wherever he's comfortable. Right now he's on the couch beside me and I've set up the pac'n'play in the living room too so he's not spending (what may seem like) the entire day in his room/crib.

Although he's a bit fussy, the great thing is that, for the most part, N is very happy...playing and smiling as usual.

I must go, I think it's clearing up outside and we could go for a walk...YEAH!!!

American Woman...Get Away From Me

2006-05-31T06:52:00.000-04:00

RELAX...this isn't an anti-American post.

When I was growing up, I took piano lessons. All my sibs did, although I did this the longest. I studied the standard "Royal Conservatory" cirriculum and was tested each year by the Conservatory. I had some talent (toot, toot) and enjoyed it most of the time. I'm not one of these people that can play anything by ear. I need music and I have to practice. I do have the ability to memorize stuff easily though, which was always a necessity for the RC exams.

But sometimes I didn't want to do it and most of the time I hated practicing. This would lead to a fight usually and I would always lose and would have to practice my prerequisite 1/2 hour a day. My Dad (an accompished guitarist who can't read a note) would always butter me up by telling my he loved hearing me play, so I would practice. Just the other night, we were watching America's Funniest Home Videos and there was a video of a little girl practicing her piano and crying while doing it. I turned to C and said, "I remember a few times like that as a kid". It's funny now.

There are ten grades of Royal Conservatory. The last two are to develop one into a teacher. I took seven. I was in high school by then and had a very busy schedule. My mother told me I was old enough to decide what I wanted to do and I chose sports. I regret "quitting" piano, but I still play sometimes when I visit my parents.

Now, as an adult, I take guitar lessons. I started a few years ago. Now, unlike when I was younger, I want to practice at least a 1/2 hour a day. My teacher is 19 and an AMAZING guitarist! He can play anything! I just give him a CD with a song I want to learn and he listens to it and plays it back almost perfectly!

But tonight is my last lesson until September...my choice. Since Noah's arrival I am having trouble either finding time or having the energy to practice. Every week on Wednesday, I practice before my lesson. I feel like I'm cramming for an exam...not exactly fair to my teacher and a waste of his & my time and my money.

I'm sad that I won't be going to lessons for a few months. But I have the summer to perfect American Woman...The Guess Who version (only the original will do).

That's a first...

2006-05-28T22:20:00.000-04:00

We've had our first cold & fever.

With all our company this weekend for the baby shower, our little man slept in our room last night. It turns out that he's noisy...or so I thought. There was a lot of grunting and groaning coming from the end of our bed. At 3:00, he woke...this hasn't happened in a while. He felt hot, but seemed to cool, particularily after being completely changed due to a "pee-thru".

But at our new wake up time (5:30) he felt hot again and when he had two bites of his bottle and fell back into a deep sleep, I pulled out the thermometer....100.1F. Not bad, but high enough for a little Tylenol.

Daddy started a cold a few days ago and even though he washed his hands lots and was careful about kissing Noah, he still contracted the cold. Now I understand all the noise...loud breathing, coughing, etc.

Noah has been in good spirits all day, regardless of the fever and cold. He has slept most of the day... on Mommy or Daddy. It turns out we softies. The fever is now gone and he's gone to bed.

The first our many germs to go through this house. I hope not to get it, 'cause I hate a summer cold.

The Year of the Family

2006-05-26T21:56:00.000-04:00

No this is not a new fangled year on the Chinese calendar...it's my family's year to bring in the babies. I am the oldest of four. I have two bros and a sis and we are keeping my parents (Nanny & Bampa*) very busy.

Craig & I started the Year of the Family with Noah, born in February. My littlest brother and girlfriend are having a baby in July and my sister is having her second in October. Her little girl, E is 2. When you ask her what's in Mommy's tummy, she claps her little hands and says "baby". "Baby" incidentally is what she calls all her dolls and stuffed animals as well, so she's in for a bit of a shock. My other bro and his wife are talking babies...so we're all very busy.

Tomorrow, Craig & I are hosting a baby shower for my little bro and his girlfriend. We love to host parties and this one will be no different. It is a family affair and the weather looks GREAT! We will have a few games (even the men will play), some gifts, some good eats and a few drinks and some family time...the best part.

It is 10:00 and we have pretty much finished our prep. This is the first party or get together of any significance we have hosted since Noah's arrival and I must say that puts a pretty interesting spin on things. Of course he was Thursday Noah all day, so it wasn't too tough.

We are all so fortunate and have lots to celebrate.

*Bampa: this is Grandpa in E talk. Now we all call Grandpa Bampa and she may never learn how to say it properly.

I can't imagine...

2006-05-20T22:56:00.000-04:00

Try to imagine, if you can, not being able hold your child, to kiss your child, to touch your baby's cheek. This couple goes through that everyday. I encourage you to read about them and their story.

Our son, born around the same time as theirs, is perfect health. We can kiss him as many times we want in a day, touch him, tickle him, hug him, hold him skin to skin...all in the comfort of our own home.

I can't imagine...

Cage Match: Wednesday Noah vs. Thursday Noah

2006-05-19T09:45:00.000-04:00

This was last week...it was like the dualling good and evil twins. Luckily most days are 90%+ Thursday Noah...enjoy.

Wednesday Noah:

I know my sock is missing and I don't know where it is and I don't care. It's been missing for some time and none of us have bothered to look for it.

The highlight of my day was sleeping through until 5:00 AM. But then I was up for the day. Sure I napped, but only in 15 minute intervals throughout the day and I ate just as sporadically.

By the time Daddy got home from work, I was in fine form and I proceeded to scream my head off from about 5 PM to 8 PM...perhaps I had gas, perhaps I just felt like it. If you think I look frazzled, you should have seen Mommy & Daddy.

Thursday Noah:

Once again I slept through until 5:00 AM, but after breakfast I went back to sleep and let Mommy sleep until 8:30. I'm such a good son.

I had two 45 minute morning naps and in between them, I played quietly while Mommy got ready for the day. During the second nap, Mommy was able to run some errands and I slept soundly in my car seat until she was done.

After lunch I played until I was the perfect amount of tired and then I let Mommy rock me to sleep. I slept for 3 1/4 hours and by the time Daddy got home I was full of smiles and ready to play. I went to bed without incident and hope to sleep until at least 5:00 AM again...for Mommy.

I wonder what I'll be like on Friday???

A Mother's Day Message to My Son

2006-05-14T22:13:00.000-04:00

Dear Sweetheart,

Thank you for my first Mother's Day. Every day is Mother's Day and today was extra special. I love you with all my heart and soul! I loved you from the moment I layed eyes on you and I love you more everyday.

I love everything about you. I love your eyes. They are so bright. I love the way they crinkle at the side when you smile and the way they light up when you see Mommy & Daddy.

I love your ears. They are so soft and perfect. I love your little button nose and I love to kiss it. I love your little mouth. I love the way you open it so wide when you smile. You have such a beautiful smile and it melts my heart everytime I see it. I love the stories you tell and the expressions you make try to get those sounds out.

I love the way you smell all the time. I love to smell the top of your head and breath in your smell. I love the way the little hairs on the top of your head tickle my nose. One of my favourite things to do is to smell your smell.

I love your little hands. I love the dimples you have on each knuckle and I love the feeling of your little fingers wrapped around mine. I love your legs. You have the best rolls on your thighs. I love the dimples on your knees. I love the way you hold then straight as a board when you are stretching.

I love your toes. They are like little jelly rolls and they have the most sweet wonderful smell (even when they are stinky). I love the way they grab my lips when I kiss them. I love your cute little bum. You have the softest, cutest little cheeks. I love you "big" belly. I love your little belly button (half innie, half outie).

I love the sounds you make when you are eating. I can tell you enjoy every bite by the way your little toys wiggle as you eat. I love the way you snuggle your face against me when you are trying to fall asleep and the way you hold the collar of my shirt when you are sleeping. I love the grunts you make when you are waking up and the look of joy on your face when Mommy or Daddy come into your room to get you out of bed.

I love to watch you and Daddy together. You have these wonderful 'conversations' and you love playing with your Daddy. It is a wonderful sight for Mommy and it almost always brings tears to my eyes when you are having Baby & Daddy time.

You are the most beautiful child. Mommy & Daddy are so blessed to have you. Thank you for coming into our lives.

I love you, love you, love you!

Thank you for making me a Mommy!

Love Always, Mommy